A global human society, characterised by islands of wealth, surrounded by a sea of poverty, is unsustainable
Thabo MbekiRead
Together we have travelled a long road to be where we are today. This has been a road of struggle against colonial and apartheid oppression.
Interpretation
This quote reflects on the collective journey of overcoming struggles and oppression.
Thabo Mbeki's quote speaks to the shared experiences of people who have fought against colonial and apartheid oppression. It highlights the resilience and unity of those who have traveled a difficult path together, emphasizing the significance of solidarity in the face of adversity and the achievements that emerge from enduring struggles as a community.
In practice
During a graduation speech, one might reflect on the struggles faced by previous generations.
A global human society, characterised by islands of wealth, surrounded by a sea of poverty, is unsustainable
Many of our own people here in this country do not ask about computers, telephones and television sets. They ask - when will we get a road to our village.
South Africa belongs to all who live in it, black and white.
Our experience over the last 20 years has shown that indeed people must themselves become their own liberators. You cannot wait for somebody else to come and rescue you.
As we mourn President Mandela’s passing we must ask ourselves the fundamental question - what shall we do to respond to the tasks of building a democratic, non-racial, non-sexist and prosperous South Africa, a people-centred society free of hunger, poverty, disease and inequality, as well as Africa’s renaissance, to whose attainment President Nelson Mandela dedicated his whole life?
Gloom and despondency have never defeated adversity. Trying times need courage and resilience. Our strength as a people is not tested during the best of times.
The sufferings that fate inflicts on us should be borne with patience, what enemies inflict with manly courage.
As powerful as is our soul's call, so potent are the forces of Resistance arrayed against it. We're not alone if we've been mowed down by Resistance; millions of good men and women have bitten the dust before us.
There's a difference between bravery and rash stupidity.
Coward dogs most spend their mouths when what they seem to threaten runs far before them.
I am a 20th century escaped slave. Because of government persecution, I was left with no other choice than to flee from the political repression, racism and violence that dominate the U.S. government’s policy towards people of color.
If your opponent has a conscience, then follow Gandhi and nonviolence. But if your enemy has no conscience like Hitler, then follow Bonhoeffer.
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